Master’s in Communication Degree Programs
Communications professionals are in demand in industries such as politics, journalism, and more. Advance your career with a master’s in communications.
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With good communication skills you can spread information, influence people, and drive change. Earning a master’s in communication degree can be a big step toward a career where your voice matters. This degree appeals to people with a variety of professional goals. If you are pursuing or advancing a career in media or public relations, you might want to look into getting a master’s in marketing, or a similar field and read on to see how it can help you accomplish your goals.
Most students can graduate with their master’s in two years from an online or on-campus program. Accelerated and part-time options are also available. Use this guide to learn what to expect from a communication program, explore careers you can pursue, and discover top online schools offering a master’s in communication degree.
Best Online Master’s in Communication Programs
How We Rank Schools
To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.
To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:
- Affordability (30%)
- Student outcomes (30%)
- Reputation (20%)
- Diversity and social mobility (20%)
In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA4 yearCampus + Online
$46,272
$46,272
11%
17%
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $2,040
Out of State | $2,040
Credits to Graduate
32
USC's online master's in communication management offers a generalist curriculum and three optional focus areas: marketing communication, market research and analytics, and strategic and organizational communication. By taking two courses per semester, full-time students can graduate in just 16 months.
Graduates join a global network of more than 15,000 USC Anneberg alumni. Program admission requires a completed bachelor's degree, a resume, a statement of purpose, a writing sample, and two letters of recommendation.
$57,256
$57,256
96%
48,321
Private
Yes
$46,272
$46,272
Los Angeles, CA4 yearCampus + Online
$46,272
$46,272
11%
17%
$57,256
$57,256
96%
48,321
Private
Yes
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $2,040
Out of State | $2,040
Credits to Graduate
32
USC's online master's in communication management offers a generalist curriculum and three optional focus areas: marketing communication, market research and analytics, and strategic and organizational communication. By taking two courses per semester, full-time students can graduate in just 16 months.
Graduates join a global network of more than 15,000 USC Anneberg alumni. Program admission requires a completed bachelor's degree, a resume, a statement of purpose, a writing sample, and two letters of recommendation.
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD4 yearCampus + Online
$55,350
$55,350
11%
46%
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Semester
In State | $29,360
Out of State | $29,360
Credits to Graduate
30
The Johns Hopkins online master's in communication teaches students to critically interpret theory, evaluate scientific communication research, and develop effective content. Six optional concentrations cover topics, such as corporate and nonprofit communication, health communication, and applied research in communication.
No in-person components are required, but learners can complete a local practicum if desired. Prospective students need a bachelor's degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA. Program-specific admission requirements include a statement of purpose and a brief writing sample.
$55,350
$55,350
97%
27,079
Private
Yes
$55,350
$55,350
Baltimore, MD4 yearCampus + Online
$55,350
$55,350
11%
46%
$55,350
$55,350
97%
27,079
Private
Yes
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Semester
In State | $29,360
Out of State | $29,360
Credits to Graduate
30
The Johns Hopkins online master's in communication teaches students to critically interpret theory, evaluate scientific communication research, and develop effective content. Six optional concentrations cover topics, such as corporate and nonprofit communication, health communication, and applied research in communication.
No in-person components are required, but learners can complete a local practicum if desired. Prospective students need a bachelor's degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA. Program-specific admission requirements include a statement of purpose and a brief writing sample.
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$10,770
$27,335
37%
46%
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $490-$890
Out of State | $490-$890
Credits to Graduate
33-37
UF's online master's in global strategic communication offers eight concentrations, such as audience analytics, political communication, digital strategy, and web design. Requiring between 33-37 credits, this graduate degree focuses on building competitive career skills.
An advisory board of industry leaders works to ensure the program meets the current needs and evolving challenges of global strategic communication. Admission requires a completed bachelor's degree, a 3.0 GPA, a statement of purpose, and three letters of recommendation.
$4,477
$25,694
97%
52,407
Public
Yes
$10,770
$27,335
Gainesville, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$10,770
$27,335
37%
46%
$4,477
$25,694
97%
52,407
Public
Yes
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $490-$890
Out of State | $490-$890
Credits to Graduate
33-37
UF's online master's in global strategic communication offers eight concentrations, such as audience analytics, political communication, digital strategy, and web design. Requiring between 33-37 credits, this graduate degree focuses on building competitive career skills.
An advisory board of industry leaders works to ensure the program meets the current needs and evolving challenges of global strategic communication. Admission requires a completed bachelor's degree, a 3.0 GPA, a statement of purpose, and three letters of recommendation.
Florida International University
Miami, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$8,912
$21,393
58%
68%
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost for Program
In State | $25,000
Out of State | $25,000
Credits to Graduate
30
FIU online offers a fully remote master's in mass communication with a global strategic communication track. The program trains globally minded and socially responsible communication leaders for roles at the highest levels of the corporate, government, and nonprofit industries.
The 30-credit curriculum offers completion times as brief as 12 months. Prospective students must hold a bachelor's degree and submit GRE scores, two letters of recommendation, a resume, and a professional goals essay.
$4,721
$16,529
89%
58,711
Public
Yes
$8,912
$21,393
Miami, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$8,912
$21,393
58%
68%
$4,721
$16,529
89%
58,711
Public
Yes
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost for Program
In State | $25,000
Out of State | $25,000
Credits to Graduate
30
FIU online offers a fully remote master's in mass communication with a global strategic communication track. The program trains globally minded and socially responsible communication leaders for roles at the highest levels of the corporate, government, and nonprofit industries.
The 30-credit curriculum offers completion times as brief as 12 months. Prospective students must hold a bachelor's degree and submit GRE scores, two letters of recommendation, a resume, and a professional goals essay.
Purdue University
West Lafayette, IN4 yearCampus + Online
$9,208
$28,010
60%
22%
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $520
Out of State | $820
Credits to Graduate
30
Taught by award-winning industry experts, Purdue's online master's in communication teaches students to develop branding and messaging strategies across local, national, and international platforms. The highly customizable curriculum requires just three core courses.
Available concentration tracks include strategic communication/public relations, integrated communication and advertising, communication and leadership, and health communication. Admission requires a completed bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA, industry experience, resume, a statement of purpose, and three letters of recommendation.
$9,208
$28,010
91%
45,500
Public
Yes
$9,208
$28,010
West Lafayette, IN4 yearCampus + Online
$9,208
$28,010
60%
22%
$9,208
$28,010
91%
45,500
Public
Yes
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $520
Out of State | $820
Credits to Graduate
30
Taught by award-winning industry experts, Purdue's online master's in communication teaches students to develop branding and messaging strategies across local, national, and international platforms. The highly customizable curriculum requires just three core courses.
Available concentration tracks include strategic communication/public relations, integrated communication and advertising, communication and leadership, and health communication. Admission requires a completed bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA, industry experience, resume, a statement of purpose, and three letters of recommendation.
Northeastern University
Boston, MA4 yearCampus + Online
$24,933
$24,933
N/A
52%
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $790
Out of State | $790
Credits to Graduate
45
Learners can pursue Northeastern's online master's in corporate and organizational communication on a part- or full-time basis, graduating in 12-18 months. The program offers six concentrations, including cross-cultural communication, leadership, social media, and project management.
This degree integrates experiential learning opportunities in the student's own workplace or through a faculty-supervised, virtual consulting project. Admission requirements include a completed bachelor's degree, a statement of purpose, a resume, and two letters of recommendation.
$29,298
$29,298
N/A
11,857
Private
Yes
$24,933
$24,933
Boston, MA4 yearCampus + Online
$24,933
$24,933
N/A
52%
$29,298
$29,298
N/A
11,857
Private
Yes
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $790
Out of State | $790
Credits to Graduate
45
Learners can pursue Northeastern's online master's in corporate and organizational communication on a part- or full-time basis, graduating in 12-18 months. The program offers six concentrations, including cross-cultural communication, leadership, social media, and project management.
This degree integrates experiential learning opportunities in the student's own workplace or through a faculty-supervised, virtual consulting project. Admission requirements include a completed bachelor's degree, a statement of purpose, a resume, and two letters of recommendation.
American University
Washington, DC4 yearCampus + Online
$30,351
$30,351
36%
20%
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,810
Out of State | $1,810
Credits to Graduate
30
AU's online master's in strategic communication offers specialization tracks in two areas: advocacy and social impact or digital communication strategies and analytics. The program's final capstone requires designing, developing, and completing a research study on a communication issue of the student's choice.
This full-time degree allows for completion in 20 months. Prospective students need a completed bachelor's degree in any discipline. AU recommends a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA for admission.
$49,070
$49,070
87%
14,318
Private
Yes
$30,351
$30,351
Washington, DC4 yearCampus + Online
$30,351
$30,351
36%
20%
$49,070
$49,070
87%
14,318
Private
Yes
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,810
Out of State | $1,810
Credits to Graduate
30
AU's online master's in strategic communication offers specialization tracks in two areas: advocacy and social impact or digital communication strategies and analytics. The program's final capstone requires designing, developing, and completing a research study on a communication issue of the student's choice.
This full-time degree allows for completion in 20 months. Prospective students need a completed bachelor's degree in any discipline. AU recommends a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA for admission.
University of Georgia
Athens, GA4 yearCampus + Online
$8,878
$25,186
45%
14%
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $630
Out of State | $630
Credits to Graduate
33
UGA's online master's in journalism and mass communication accommodates students from a variety of educational and professional backgrounds. The emerging media concentration focuses on development, design, and project management of the latest interactive digital media formats.
All students complete an emerging media capstone project, such as product development, design research publication, or a client-based project. Program admission requires a completed bachelor's degree, a minimum 3.0 GPA, a resume, a statement of purpose and goals, and three letters of recommendation.
$9,790
$28,830
96%
38,920
Public
Yes
$8,878
$25,186
Athens, GA4 yearCampus + Online
$8,878
$25,186
45%
14%
$9,790
$28,830
96%
38,920
Public
Yes
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $630
Out of State | $630
Credits to Graduate
33
UGA's online master's in journalism and mass communication accommodates students from a variety of educational and professional backgrounds. The emerging media concentration focuses on development, design, and project management of the latest interactive digital media formats.
All students complete an emerging media capstone project, such as product development, design research publication, or a client-based project. Program admission requires a completed bachelor's degree, a minimum 3.0 GPA, a resume, a statement of purpose and goals, and three letters of recommendation.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$14,997
$28,404
59%
39%
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $920
Out of State | $920
Credits to Graduate
32
The online master's in strategic brand communication at Illinois offers an interdisciplinary education through the Gies College of Business and the Sandage Department of Advertising. Graduates understand how to grow an organization's revenue through the latest marketing techniques and strategies.
Each student completes a professional capstone project, involving research, analysis, and campaign evaluation. Admission requires a completed bachelor's degree. Illinois evaluates prospective students based on work and educational experience, GPA, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.
$14,188
$33,127
93%
51,605
Public
Yes
$14,997
$28,404
Champaign, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$14,997
$28,404
59%
39%
$14,188
$33,127
93%
51,605
Public
Yes
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $920
Out of State | $920
Credits to Graduate
32
The online master's in strategic brand communication at Illinois offers an interdisciplinary education through the Gies College of Business and the Sandage Department of Advertising. Graduates understand how to grow an organization's revenue through the latest marketing techniques and strategies.
Each student completes a professional capstone project, involving research, analysis, and campaign evaluation. Admission requires a completed bachelor's degree. Illinois evaluates prospective students based on work and educational experience, GPA, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.
Syracuse University
Syracuse, NY4 yearCampus + Online
$38,880
$38,880
44%
15%
Hybrid | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Semester
In State | $11,780
Out of State | $11,780
Credits to Graduate
33
Syracuse's online master's in communications offers concentrations in public relations, advertising, journalism innovation, and media management. While courses take place entirely online, students must attend two in-person, weekend-long immersions scheduled throughout the program.
Admission requires a completed bachelor's degree, a resume, a personal statement, and three letters of recommendation. Syracuse also requires participation in an online video interview. Graduates can access the Newhouse Network alumni database, which boasts over 5,800 communications industry contacts.
$50,616
$50,616
92%
22,850
Private
Yes
$38,880
$38,880
Syracuse, NY4 yearCampus + Online
$38,880
$38,880
44%
15%
$50,616
$50,616
92%
22,850
Private
Yes
Hybrid | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Semester
In State | $11,780
Out of State | $11,780
Credits to Graduate
33
Syracuse's online master's in communications offers concentrations in public relations, advertising, journalism innovation, and media management. While courses take place entirely online, students must attend two in-person, weekend-long immersions scheduled throughout the program.
Admission requires a completed bachelor's degree, a resume, a personal statement, and three letters of recommendation. Syracuse also requires participation in an online video interview. Graduates can access the Newhouse Network alumni database, which boasts over 5,800 communications industry contacts.
Master’s in Communication Specializations
The curriculum of a communication degree is broad and can be applied to many industries. Choosing a concentration for an MA or MS in communication allows you to graduate as an expert in your field. Some programs are more academic, focusing on theories and preparing you for further study. Alternatively, some pathways take a more applied approach and feature practical, hands-on experiences.
The concentration you choose is dependent on your personal career goals. For example, if you hope to work in business, consider an advertising or leadership concentration. Different concentrations can help prepare graduates for careers in business, advertising, healthcare, and even professional writing.
Specializations
- Strategic Communication and Public Relations
- Integrated Communication and Advertising
- Communication and Leadership
- Health Communication
- Advocacy and Social Impact
- Media and Arts Management and Promotion
- Political Communication
- Technical Communication
Communication Degree Curriculum
Communication programs cover a variety of topics, including writing, media studies, public imaging, and pop culture. Depending on your chosen program, you may or may not be required to complete a thesis project in your final term.
A successful thesis project shows that you can apply what you’ve learned in the classroom by conducting new research and producing scholarly materials.
Courses
- Persuasion and Social Influence
- Mass Communication Effects
- Political Communication
- Communication Research Methods
- Advanced Media Writing
Admission Requirements
The admission requirements for a master’s in communication program are similar to many other graduate programs. Common requirements include:
- A bachelor’s degree in a related field earned with a minimum GPA
- GRE scores (programs do not always require standardized test scores)
- An application essay and student resume
- Letters of recommendation from past professors, school counselors, mentors, or volunteer supervisors
What Can I Do With a Communication Degree?
This degree can open several doors for you, including advanced positions with higher pay and expanded job responsibilities. While it is possible to work up to many senior-level roles with a bachelor’s degree and ample experience, an advanced qualification signals your seriousness about career development to potential employers.
| Job | Median Annual Salary (2023) |
|---|---|
| Marketing Manager | $156,580 |
| Writer | $73,690 |
| Technical Writer | $80,050 |
| Editor | $75,020 |
| Public Relations Manager | $130,480 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Master’s in Communication Programs
The amount of time it takes to complete a master’s in communication degree depends on the school and the program. Students who enroll on a part-time basis should expect to take longer to finish, while those enrolled in accelerated or degree-completion programs can finish their studies more quickly.
Many master’s degree programs feature 30-40 credits and take 18-24 months to complete. USC’s master of communication management program can be completed in as little as 16 months.
Motivated students who graduate with a bachelor’s in communication can earn a master’s degree in just about any field, though many choose to earn a master’s in communication. Within the field of communication, some graduate programs offer more specialized training, such as a master’s in media communication.
What is an MS in communication?
A master of science (MS) in communication is a graduate degree focusing on the scientific aspects of communication. Students may complete courses such as strategic communication and marketing communication. This degree option may be a good choice for communication students interested in business, healthcare, or political careers.
Though similar, the curriculum of a master of arts (MA) program may focus more on the creative side of communication. An MA degree is often a good choice for students interested in careers in education or philosophy.
an a communication major get an MBA?
Many MBA programs admit students with a bachelor’s degree in any field, meaning a communication major can earn an MBA after completing their bachelor’s. Many undergraduate communication programs offer specializations in advertising and business communication, preparing graduates for MBA coursework.
Aspiring graduate students may opt to apply to both MBA and master’s in communication programs before ultimately selecting the option that best aligns with their goals. The application requirements for these programs tend to be similar and may include submitting standardized test scores, writing a personal statement, and forwarding transcripts and letters of recommendation.
Feature Image: Alistair Berg / DigitalVision / Getty Images
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